1990 Ford Sierra vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1990 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 287 kg more than 1990 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Ford Sierra 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 1990 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Sierra. (123 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Sierra. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1990 Ford Sierra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Sierra | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Sierra | A3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
