2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Plymouth Volare. (101 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Plymouth Volare weights approximately 535 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Plymouth Volare 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 Plymouth Volare. 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Plymouth Volare. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Plymouth Volare.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1978 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Audi | Plymouth |
| Model | A3 | Volare |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3687 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
