2008 Audi A3 vs. 1974 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 258 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1974 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 1974 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1974 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 | 1974 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
