2002 Audi A3 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 520 (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Audi A3 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |