2001 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1974 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1974 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Ford Cortina 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 1974 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1974 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
