2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
