1996 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 1999 Ford Contour is newer by 3 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Contour weights approximately 246 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, 1999 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1999 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 56 L |
