2004 Audi S4 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 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, 2004 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2004 Audi S4 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi S4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
