2003 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Audi 100
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Audi 100 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 19 more horse power than 1986 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1986 Audi 100. 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 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Audi 100. (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1986 Audi 100 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
