2005 Audi A4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 33 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 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 105 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1972 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 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
