1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X is newer by 13 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
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, 2009 Ford Taurus X (339 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2009 Ford Taurus X 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. 2009 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2009 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 72 L |
