2003 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 1165 kg more than 1980 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1980 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 34 L |
