2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. 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 Opel Rekord. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (126 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
