2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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 Renault 4. 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 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (58 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 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 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 58 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 38 L |
