2009 Audi A4 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 38 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (328 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 270 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 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2700 mm |
