2009 Audi R8 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
