2006 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1980 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
