1997 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Contour | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
