1978 BMW 725 vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2004 Audi S3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2004 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 725 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2530 mm |
