2009 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Skyline 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 1981 Nissan Skyline. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
