1983 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Mustang 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:
| 1983 Ford Mustang | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Mustang | A3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2578 mm |
