1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 197 kg more than 2003 Audi S3.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Thunderbird | S3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
