2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 275 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.

Because 1980 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1980 Chevrolet Caprice (334 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1980 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A3 1980 Chevrolet Caprice
Make Audi Chevrolet
Model A3 Caprice
Year Released 2009 1980
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 5002 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 334 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.6 mm 94.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 88.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1720 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 5460 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 2020 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2950 mm