2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 456 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
