2003 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,292 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1984 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1984 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Ford Mustang. 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, 1984 Ford Mustang (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1984 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A3 1984 Ford Mustang
Make Audi Ford
Model A3 Mustang
Year Released 2003 1984
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 2292 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 88 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 161 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81.1 mm 96 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.4 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.0:1
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1205 kg 1185 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2560 mm