2005 Audi A4 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 34 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (240 Nm @ 1980 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| 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 | 187 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1980 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
