2009 Audi A5 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A5 (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A5 weights approximately 189 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Audi A5 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A5 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |
