2008 Audi A3 vs. 1977 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1977 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1977 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 198 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 12 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 | 1430 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |