1996 Audi A3 vs. 1975 AC 428
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 AC 428 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 AC 428 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 1975 AC 428. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1975 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 466 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1975 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1975 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1975 AC 428 | |
| Make | Audi | AC |
| Model | A3 | 428 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
