1972 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Audi S3
To start off, 2011 Audi S3 is newer by 39 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S3 weights approximately 81 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi S3 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, 2011 Audi S3 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, 2011 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2011 Audi S3 | |
Make | BMW | Audi |
Model | 3 | S3 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 252 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 331 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1455 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1410 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1770 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |