1991 Audi 80 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1991 Audi 80 is newer by 20 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 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1991 Audi 80. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 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 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Audi 80. (168 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Audi 80 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 75 L |
