2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Lada 1600
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lada 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lada 1600 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Lada 1600. (78 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lada 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lada 1600 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Lada 1600 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 Lada 1600. 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lada 1600. (122 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lada 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1978 Lada 1600 | |
| Make | Audi | Lada |
| Model | A3 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1568 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 39 L |
