2008 Audi A4 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (179 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 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 A4 (370 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
