2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Simca Horizon

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Simca Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Simca Horizon would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (83 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. 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 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon. 1978 Simca Horizon has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Simca Horizon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A3 1978 Simca Horizon
Make Audi Simca
Model A3 Horizon
Year Released 2009 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 1442 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 101 HP 83 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 121 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 180 km/hour 156 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1280 kg 1025 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 47 L