2009 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus would be higher. At 2,170 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus has manual transmission. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 | 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus | |
| Make | Audi | Talbot |
| Model | A3 | Sunbeam-Lotus |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
