2009 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Toyota Celica
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Celica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Celica. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Toyota Celica weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1981 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Celica. (172 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Celica. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Toyota Celica has manual transmission. 1981 Toyota Celica 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 | 1981 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | A3 | Celica |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
