1986 Audi 80 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1986 Audi 80 is newer by 15 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 121 more horse power than 1986 Audi 80. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 444 kg more than 1986 Audi 80. 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, 1986 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Audi 80 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
