2006 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,013 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (190 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 199 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Pontiac Firebird 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (325 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1985 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1474 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
