1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 86 kg more than 1988 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Mustang | 2004 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Mustang | A3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |
