1997 Audi A6 vs. 1974 BMW 3
To start off, 1997 Audi A6 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A6 (227 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A6 weights approximately 227 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 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 @ 1700 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 1974 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
