1996 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante would be higher. At 5,341 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante (317 HP) has 217 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante weights approximately 684 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 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante 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 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante. 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, 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante (434 Nm) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante 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. 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante | |
| Make | Audi | Aston Martin |
| Model | A3 | V8 Volante |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5341 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 317 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
