2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 BMW 725
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1981 BMW 725 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
