2004 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 830 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 126 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 1973 Fiat 126. 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Audi | Fiat |
| Model | A3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 20 L |
