1996 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Ford Probe
To start off, 1998 Ford Probe is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Probe (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Probe weights approximately 84 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.
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, 1998 Ford Probe (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1998 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
