2003 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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) has 187 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
