1996 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Fiat 131
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (64 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 114 kg more than 1980 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 131 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 1980 Fiat 131. 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 (136 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (102 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1980 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Audi | Fiat |
| Model | A3 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 64 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
