2002 Audi A3 vs. 1973 BMW 525
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 525 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 525 weights approximately 85 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 1973 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 2002 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 525. (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1973 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1380 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
