2003 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
