2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Ford Taunus
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 Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Taunus 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) has 190 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1981 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Taunus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 2800 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1981 Ford Taunus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Taunus |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
