2008 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. 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 1981 Vauxhall Astra. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1981 Vauxhall Astra 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 | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Audi | Vauxhall |
| Model | A3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
