1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1987 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Taurus | A3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
