1998 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2013 Ford Mustang is newer by 15 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Mustang (301 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Mustang weights approximately 510 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.
Because 2013 Ford Mustang 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 2013 Ford Mustang. 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, 2013 Ford Mustang (380 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2013 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2035 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 61 L |
