2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Honda Accord

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Honda Accord. (90 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1978 Honda Accord. 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 Honda Accord. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Accord. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Accord.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 1978 Honda Accord
Make Audi Honda
Model A3 Accord
Year Released 2008 1978
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1966 cc 1750 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.5 mm 94 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 8.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1545 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2390 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 61 L