2004 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 185 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1981 Pontiac Firebird 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Audi | Pontiac |
Model | A3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1894 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 256 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 149 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |