2001 Audi A4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2001 Audi A4 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A4 weights approximately 186 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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, 2001 Audi A4 (350 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | 3 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1374 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |