2008 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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 85 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 680 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 141 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
