2009 Audi A5 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A5 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A5 weights approximately 120 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 1971 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5, 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 A5 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
