2003 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Ford Probe
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Probe would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1997 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1997 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Probe |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
