1996 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (90 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 344 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Santana (145 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Santana |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 90 HP |
Torque | 136 Nm | 145 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |