2004 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Audi | Fiat |
| Model | A3 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2500 mm |
