2006 Audi A3 vs. 1961 Austin A 55
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1961 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Austin A 55 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 1961 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1961 Austin A 55 | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A3 | A 55 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
