2006 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1979 Opel Ascona. (142 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 346 kg more than 1979 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Opel Ascona 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 Opel Ascona. 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Ascona. (210 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1979 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
