2008 Audi A3 vs. 1962 BMW 1800
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1800 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1800. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1962 BMW 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1800 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 1962 BMW 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, 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, 2008 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1800. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1800. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1962 BMW 1800 has manual transmission. 1962 BMW 1800 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1962 BMW 1800 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1043 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
