2003 Audi A3 vs. 1969 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1969 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 7029 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 29.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 91 L |
