1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 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 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2012 Audi R8 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 R8 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 R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 3 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2649 mm |
