2005 Audi A3 vs. 1977 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 520 (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1977 BMW 520.
Because 1977 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 1977 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1977 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
