2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,968 cc, 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1980 Toyota Carina. (75 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Toyota Carina weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1980 Toyota Carina 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 Toyota Carina. 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 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Toyota Carina. (115 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Toyota Carina. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Toyota Carina has manual transmission. 1980 Toyota Carina 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 | 1980 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | A3 | Carina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1588 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
