2009 Audi A3 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 550 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 520. 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 10.6 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 | 895 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
