1996 Audi A3 vs. 1969 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 1969 Ford Thunderbird 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 1969 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1969 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 7029 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 91 L |
