1982 Porsche 944 vs. 2012 Audi A3

To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1982 Porsche 944. (163 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1982 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 Porsche 944 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 1982 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Porsche 944. (205 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Porsche 944. 1982 Porsche 944 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Porsche 944 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Porsche 944 2012 Audi A3
Make Porsche Audi
Model 944 A3
Year Released 1982 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2479 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 163 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 205 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1800 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1460 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1763 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1422 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 55 L