1974 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 is newer by 37 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A5 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A5 weights approximately 327 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 2011 Audi A5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5 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 A5 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 3 | A5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2751 mm |
