2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Buick Estate

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Estate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Estate would be higher. At 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Buick Estate is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Estate (182 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Estate should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Estate weights approximately 525 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Buick Estate is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Buick Estate. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1988 Buick Estate (435 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Estate will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1988 Buick Estate has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Estate will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 1988 Buick Estate
Make Audi Buick
Model A3 Estate
Year Released 2008 1988
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 6598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 104 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 435 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 2200 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1885 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 5510 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1990 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2950 mm