2004 Audi A3 vs. 1981 BMW 745
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 745 weights approximately 391 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 745 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 1981 BMW 745. 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1981 BMW 745 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 745 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 100 L |
