1996 Audi A3 vs. 1972 BMW Turbo
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW Turbo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW Turbo would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW Turbo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW Turbo (129 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW Turbo should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1972 BMW Turbo.
Because 1972 BMW Turbo 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 1972 BMW Turbo. 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, 1972 BMW Turbo (177 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1972 BMW Turbo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1972 BMW Turbo | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Turbo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 129 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
