2003 Audi RS6 vs. 1974 BMW 3

To start off, 2003 Audi RS6 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi RS6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi RS6 (444 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi RS6 weights approximately 477 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Audi RS6 (560 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi RS6 1974 BMW 3
Make Audi BMW
Model RS6 3
Year Released 2003 1974
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4163 cc 2986 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 444 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 560 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 1950 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.5 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93 mm 80 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 214 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1910 kg 1433 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2700 mm