2005 Audi A3 vs. 1955 Austin-Healey 100
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin-Healey 100 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | |
| Make | Audi | Austin-Healey |
| Model | A3 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2660 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 109 L |
