1971 BMW 3 vs. 2001 Audi A6

To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A6 (252 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 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, 2001 Audi A6 (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2001 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2001 Audi A6
Make BMW Audi
Model 3 A6
Year Released 1971 2001
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 2671 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 180 HP 252 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 255 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 211 km/hour 246 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1720 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4800 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2660 mm