1978 Honda Accord vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Accord would be higher. At 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1978 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 680 kg more than 1978 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Honda Accord. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Honda Accord | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Honda | Audi |
| Model | Accord | A3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1602 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
