2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort 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 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 321 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2400 mm |
