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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (211 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 11 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. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
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 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 79 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 | 1984 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 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 | 1030 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
