2008 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Opel Rekord

To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 456 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4, 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 A4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A4 1978 Opel Rekord
Make Audi Opel
Model A4 Rekord
Year Released 2008 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2496 cc 1689 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 161 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 8.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1104 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 65 L