1980 Ford Escort vs. 2010 Audi A3
To start off, 2010 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Audi A3 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2010 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Escort | A3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4293 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
