2006 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1978 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 1978 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Audi | Pontiac |
Model | A3 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |