1996 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Nissan Silvia
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Nissan Silvia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1978 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. 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 Nissan Silvia (148 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1978 Nissan Silvia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1978 Nissan Silvia | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Silvia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 97 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2350 mm |
