2004 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 510 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Patrol has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Patrol 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 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2980 mm |
