1998 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 11 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 235 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. 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, 2009 Ford Focus (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
