2004 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Austin Maxi
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1978 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1978 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1978 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A3 | Maxi |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
