2003 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf 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 55 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |