2001 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 381 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Thunderbird 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 1988 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2880 mm |
