2009 Audi A3 vs. 1975 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1975 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4350 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 12 seconds |
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 | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |