1996 Audi A3 vs. 1969 BMW 1600
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 BMW 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1969 BMW 1600. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1969 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 BMW 1600 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 1969 BMW 1600. 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1969 BMW 1600 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 46 L |
