2004 Audi A3 vs. 1976 Ford Cortina

To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (101 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 503 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A3 1976 Ford Cortina
Make Audi Ford
Model A3 Cortina
Year Released 2004 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3189 cc 1993 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 252 HP 101 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 90.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.9 mm 77 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 9.2:1
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1565 kg 1062 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 54 L