2005 Audi A4 vs. 1974 BMW 3
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (223 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 262 kg more than 1974 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 1974 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 (300 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1974 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
