2004 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,456 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (301 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 266 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Pontiac Firebird 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 7456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 105.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 106.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
