1996 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 101 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Taurus weights approximately 254 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Ford Taurus (187 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1986 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
