1961 Austin A vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1961 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Austin A 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 1961 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Austin | Audi |
| Model | A | A3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
