1998 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Escape (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Escape weights approximately 517 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, 2012 Ford Escape (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Escape |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1657 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 57 L |
