2009 Audi A4 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 3 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 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4, 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 A4 (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
