1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 8 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 522 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 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (427 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
