1989 Audi Coupe vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1989 Audi Coupe is newer by 18 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 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1989 Audi Coupe. (134 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1989 Audi Coupe. 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, 1989 Audi Coupe, 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 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi Coupe. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi Coupe | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | Coupe | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2700 mm |
