2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Buick Electra
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,730 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Buick Electra. (153 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Electra weights approximately 340 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Buick Electra 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 Buick Electra. 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, 1978 Buick Electra (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1978 Buick Electra | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Electra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 97.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3030 mm |
