1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 605 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 Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. 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 Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 249 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
