2012 Audi A3 vs. 1960 Abarth 850
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Abarth 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Abarth 850 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1960 Abarth 850. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1960 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 890 kg more than 1960 Abarth 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Abarth 850 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 1960 Abarth 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Abarth 850. (70 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Abarth 850. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1960 Abarth 850 has manual transmission. 1960 Abarth 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1960 Abarth 850 | |
| Make | Audi | Abarth |
| Model | A3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 850 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1360 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
