1974 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Audi A4
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 361 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A4 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2008 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2008 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| 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 | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2660 mm |
