2003 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Honda Accord
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1981 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | Accord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
