1998 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Ford Econovan
To start off, 2001 Ford Econovan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 305 kg more than 1998 Audi A3.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2001 Ford Econovan (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2001 Ford Econovan has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Econovan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2001 Ford Econovan | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Econovan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2210 mm |
