2002 Audi A3 vs. 1977 BMW 520
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 520 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2002 Audi A3.
Because 1977 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 1977 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, 2002 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1977 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 10.9 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 | 1340 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
