1996 Audi A3 vs. 1959 BMW 700
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 700 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 1959 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1959 BMW 700 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 700 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 697 cc |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2130 mm |
