2008 Audi A3 vs. 1980 BMW 725
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1980 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 725.
Because 1980 BMW 725 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 1980 BMW 725. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1980 BMW 725 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
