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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 301 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A4 (301 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |
