1996 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Buick Electra
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Buick Electra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick Electra weights approximately 552 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 1981 Buick Electra 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 1981 Buick Electra. 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, 1981 Buick Electra (278 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1981 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1981 Buick Electra 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. 1981 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1981 Buick Electra | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Electra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4129 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 100.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| 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 | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 95 L |
