1996 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Laurel (123 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 111 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 1981 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 1981 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, 1981 Nissan Laurel (222 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1981 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. 1981 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
