1971 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 1971 Ford Mustang. 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) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Mustang | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Mustang | A3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4726 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1763 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2578 mm |
