1981 Audi 80 vs. 2006 Audi S3
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1981 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2006 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | 80 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1430 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2530 mm |
