1972 Ford GT 40 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Because 1972 Ford GT 40 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 1972 Ford GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (148 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1972 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford GT 40 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | GT 40 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 55 L |
