1996 Audi A3 vs. 1971 BMW 2002
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 BMW 2002 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 101 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 156 kg more than 1971 BMW 2002.
Because 1971 BMW 2002 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 2002. 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, 1971 BMW 2002 (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 2002 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1971 BMW 2002 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 2002 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 46 L |
