2001 Audi A3 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 29 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 93 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 25 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, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
