2006 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
