2002 Audi A8 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8, 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 A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2620 mm |
