2012 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry 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 111 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Cherry has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Cherry 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 | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2400 mm |
