2004 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Honda Accord

To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Accord 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 1981 Honda Accord
Make Audi Honda
Model A3 Accord
Year Released 2004 1981
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1894 cc 1602 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.4:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1420 kg 890 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2390 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 50 L