2009 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo 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 1982 Volkswagen Polo
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A3 Polo
Year Released 2009 1982
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 281 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1030 kg 730 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.8 L/100km 6.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 40 L