1985 Audi 80 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 1985 Audi 80 is newer by 13 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP) has 138 more horse power than 1985 Audi 80. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1985 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 80, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 80 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
