2003 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Buick Century (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Buick Century 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 1978 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Century |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
