2003 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 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 80 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 126 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 1980 Fiat 126. 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 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Audi | Fiat |
| Model | A3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 1850 mm |
