2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, 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 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
