2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Opel Vectra

To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 422 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Opel Vectra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Vectra 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 1988 Opel Vectra
Make Audi Opel
Model A3 Vectra
Year Released 2004 1988
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3189 cc 1686 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 252 HP 82 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 168 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 22.0:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 169 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1565 kg 1143 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 55 L