1996 Audi A3 vs. 1977 BMW 520
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 520 (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 520 weights approximately 164 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 BMW 520 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 1977 BMW 520. 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, 1977 BMW 520 (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1977 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |