2008 Audi A3 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 36 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 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 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
