2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Let's talk about torque, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 1981 Opel Ascona
Make Audi Opel
Model A3 Ascona
Year Released 2006 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 154 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1510 kg 1050 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 40 L