1996 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Buick Regal
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Regal weights approximately 290 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Buick Regal 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 1978 Buick Regal. 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, 1978 Buick Regal (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1978 Buick Regal | |
Make | Audi | Buick |
Model | A3 | Regal |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3214 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2750 mm |