2002 Audi A3 vs. 1976 BMW 3.3
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 BMW 3.3 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 BMW 3.3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 219 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 1976 BMW 3.3 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 1976 BMW 3.3. 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, 1976 BMW 3.3 (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 BMW 3.3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1976 BMW 3.3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 3.3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
