1994 Audi A8 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1994 Audi A8 is newer by 23 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1994 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Audi A8 (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Audi A8 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1994 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1994 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1994 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Audi A8 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
