1998 Ford Probe vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Probe would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1998 Ford Probe. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Probe | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
