2007 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2007 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
