2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Honda Civic
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 767 kg more than 1978 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1978 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | Civic |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2210 mm |
