2002 Audi A8 vs. 1973 BMW 3
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 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 240 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 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 | 1973 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 3153 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2510 mm |
