1970 Rover 3.5 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1970 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 212 kg more than 2003 Audi S3.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Rover 3.5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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, 2003 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Rover 3.5. (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Rover 3.5. 1970 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Rover 3.5 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Rover | Audi |
| Model | 3.5 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3532 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2530 mm |
