2004 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Subaru XT (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 112 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT.
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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT 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 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Audi | Subaru |
| Model | A3 | XT |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
