1985 Audi 100 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1985 Audi 100 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1985 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 100, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (180 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2670 mm |
