1986 Pontiac 1000 vs. 2002 Audi A3

To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1986 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 Pontiac 1000 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 1986 Pontiac 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac 1000. 2002 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Pontiac 1000 has manual transmission. 1986 Pontiac 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Pontiac 1000 2002 Audi A3
Make Pontiac Audi
Model 1000 A3
Year Released 1986 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1599 cc 1967 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 64 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 109 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 960 kg 1340 kg
Vehicle Length 4120 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1580 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2400 mm 2580 mm