1996 Audi A3 vs. 1975 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercury Cougar (152 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 896 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mercury Cougar 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 1975 Mercury Cougar. 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, 1975 Mercury Cougar (378 Nm) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1975 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1975 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | A3 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 152 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2910 mm |
