2001 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 34 L |
