1972 Austin 1800 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1972 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1972 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Austin 1800. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin 1800 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Austin | Audi |
| Model | 1800 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
