2001 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (67 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (118 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Audi | Peugeot |
| Model | A3 | 309 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2480 mm |
