1978 Audi 100 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 245 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.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Audi 100. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1978 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | 100 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
