1985 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. 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, 2005 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Escort | A3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
