2004 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Nissan Fairlady

To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Fairlady. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Fairlady would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Fairlady is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Nissan Fairlady 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 Nissan Fairlady. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Fairlady. (175 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Fairlady.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A3 1973 Nissan Fairlady
Make Audi Nissan
Model A3 Fairlady
Year Released 2004 1973
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 109 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1410 kg 995 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2310 mm