1996 Audi A3 vs. 1962 BMW 1500
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1500 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 43 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1500. (80 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 97 kg more than 1962 BMW 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1500 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 1962 BMW 1500. 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 @ 4100 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1500. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1962 BMW 1500 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 71 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1043 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
