1997 Audi A6 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 1997 Audi A6 is newer by 25 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Audi A6. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A6 weights approximately 106 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6, 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, 1997 Audi A6 (310 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Audi A6 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A6 | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1374 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |