Audi RS3 vs BMW Z4
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Audi RS3 starts from $99,208 before on-road costs, while the BMW Z4 opens at $99,200. That makes the BMW Z4 the more affordable entry point by $8.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $109,129 and $109,120 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
The Audi RS3 holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 3 stars for the BMW Z4. Adult occupant protection scored 89% for the Audi RS3 and 96% for the BMW Z4.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Audi RS3 packs more ADAS features with 9 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the BMW Z4.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Audi RS3 and 4 in the BMW Z4. The Audi RS3 adds a 360-degree camera that the BMW Z4 misses.
Feature Showdown
The Audi RS3 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, while the BMW Z4 gets a 10.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Audi RS3 stands out with head-up display, heated front seats, power tailgate, Sonos 3D Premium audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the BMW Z4. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Audi RS3 uses a 5-cylinder petrol with direct fuel injection, turbocharging producing 294kW and 500Nm of torque, sent through a 7-speed s tronic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds.
The BMW Z4 responds with a Petrol making 145kW and 300Nm, paired to a auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds.
The Audi RS3 has the clear power advantage at 294kW vs 145kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi RS3 is 1.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Audi RS3 measures 4,389mm long on a 2,630mm wheelbase, 54mm longer than the BMW Z4 at 4,335mm (2,470mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi RS3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 282L in the Audi RS3 and 210L in the BMW Z4, giving the Audi RS3 a 72L advantage. The Audi RS3 seats 5 vs 2.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 11.1m
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,366/year for the Audi RS3 and $2,223/year for the BMW Z4. That is a $143 annual difference in favour of the BMW Z4.
Estimated annual total: $2,366 (Audi RS3) vs $2,223 (BMW Z4). The BMW Z4 saves you roughly $143 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Audi RS3) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW Z4). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Audi RS3 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW Z4 if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi RS3 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. The BMW Z4 will save you roughly $143 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Audi RS3 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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