2009 Audi S3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi S3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 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, 2009 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
