1999 Audi A4 vs. 1973 BMW 3
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 26 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 80 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4. 1999 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1973 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3153 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 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 |
