2009 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (123 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (204 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1984 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
