1972 Datsun 240Z vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Because 1972 Datsun 240Z 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 1972 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1972 Datsun 240Z has manual transmission. 1972 Datsun 240Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Datsun 240Z | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Datsun | Audi |
| Model | 240Z | A3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
