1998 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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, 1998 Audi A3 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
