2008 Audi A8 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 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 A8 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 A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 75 L |
