2002 Audi A4 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2002 Audi A4 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2002 Audi A4. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2002 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A4, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A4 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
