2005 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Honda Civic

To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1988 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2005 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (144 Nm @ 5300 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Audi A3 1988 Honda Civic
Make Audi Honda
Model A3 Civic
Year Released 2005 1988
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1590 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 144 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 5300 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1370 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4240 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1370 mm