1996 Audi A6 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A6 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
