2002 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Ford GT 40
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Because 1972 Ford GT 40 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 1972 Ford GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (201 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1972 Ford GT 40 | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | GT 40 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 980 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2420 mm |
