2004 Audi A4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 32 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 41 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
