1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 41 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, 2012 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 Audi A8 (550 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2012 Audi A8 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. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
Make | BMW | Audi |
Model | 3 | A8 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 550 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5136 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1948 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1461 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2992 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 90 L |