2006 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Buick Electra

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Electra weights approximately 410 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.

Because 1979 Buick Electra 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 1979 Buick Electra. 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, 1979 Buick Electra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 1979 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 1979 Buick Electra
Make Audi Buick
Model A3 Electra
Year Released 2006 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 4942 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 148 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 201 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1315 kg 1725 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 5650 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1970 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 3030 mm