2001 Audi A6 vs. 1974 BMW 3
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 27 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, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Audi A6. (174 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 262 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
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, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1974 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2700 mm |
