2008 Audi A3 vs. 1972 BMW 520
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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. 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 (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 12.3 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 | 1390 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
