2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 BMW Z4. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4. 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, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
