1972 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Audi A4
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2009 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 254 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
