1986 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1986 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, 2004 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2004 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Escort | A3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
