1988 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort.
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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1988 Ford Escort 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:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Escort | A3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
