2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Toyota Celica
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Celica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Celica. (148 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1981 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Celica 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 1981 Toyota Celica. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Celica. (182 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1981 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | A3 | Celica |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
