1996 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1979 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. 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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Nissan Laurel. 1979 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1979 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
