2003 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Toyota Corona

To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Corona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Corona would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Corona. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Corona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1978 Toyota Corona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Toyota Corona 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 Toyota Corona. 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 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Corona. (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Corona.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A3 1978 Toyota Corona
Make Audi Toyota
Model A3 Corona
Year Released 2003 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1896 cc 1770 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 3400 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 60 L