2009 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Rover 3.5
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 608 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1974 Rover 3.5 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 1974 Rover 3.5. 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Rover 3.5. (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Rover 3.5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1974 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Audi | Rover |
| Model | A3 | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2820 mm |
