2008 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Nissan Silvia

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Silvia 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 4 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Silvia. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 257 kg more than 1989 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 Nissan Silvia 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 1989 Nissan Silvia. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Silvia. (179 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Silvia.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 1989 Nissan Silvia
Make Audi Nissan
Model A3 Silvia
Year Released 2008 1989
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 1809 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 179 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1452 kg 1195 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2440 mm