2008 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1980 Mercury Cougar.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercury Cougar. 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 @ 2800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (164 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1980 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | A3 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
