2004 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Cortina 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 141 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1973 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Ford Cortina 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 Ford Cortina. 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1973 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
