2009 Audi A3 vs. 1976 Audi 100
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1976 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Audi 100 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1976 Audi 100 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 1976 Audi 100. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Audi 100. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Audi 100. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1976 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1976 Audi 100 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1986 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
