1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 609 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3, 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Audi |
| Model | 100 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 55 L |
