2006 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Pontiac Firebird 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
