2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Renault 5
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Renault 5. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1978 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 5. (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 5. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 5 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 5 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 | 1978 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
