2006 Audi RS4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2006 Audi RS4 is newer by 34 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 4,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi RS4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi RS4 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi RS4 weights approximately 440 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 2006 Audi RS4 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, 2006 Audi RS4 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 RS4 (430 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi RS4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | RS4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4162 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
