2011 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1978 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Buick Century 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 1978 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Audi A3 | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Century |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2760 mm |
