2003 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,554 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 165 kg more than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair 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 Mitsubishi Debonair. 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, 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1980 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Audi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A3 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2554 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2700 mm |
