2009 Audi A5 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2009 Audi A5. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A5 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
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 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A5. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
