1996 Audi A4 vs. 1973 BMW 3
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 BMW 3 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4, 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1973 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3153 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
