2003 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 8 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 450 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 595 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.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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, 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 (691 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 543 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 550 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 691 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| 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 | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
