2008 Audi A3 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
