2004 Audi A3 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1951 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 6 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |