2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 BMW 730
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 730 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 120 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 1978 BMW 730 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 1978 BMW 730. 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, 1978 BMW 730 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1978 BMW 730 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 730 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2788 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
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 | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |