2009 Audi A3 vs. 1962 BMW 1800
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1800 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1800. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 347 kg more than 1962 BMW 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1800 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 1962 BMW 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1800. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1962 BMW 1800 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1043 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
