2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1978 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1978 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Cortina. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Cortina. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1978 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
