2009 Audi A3 vs. 1961 Austin A
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A weights approximately 115 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1961 Austin A 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 1961 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1961 Austin A | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
