2009 Audi A8 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 450 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
