1978 Audi 100 vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | 100 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
