2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Toyota Corolla
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 Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 Corolla. 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 (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (105 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1981 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | A3 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
