1996 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Fairlane (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 490 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 1985 Ford Fairlane 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 1985 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1985 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1985 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4089 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
