2003 Audi A8 vs. 1971 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1971 Ford Mustang.

Because 1971 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 A8 (300 Nm) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1971 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1971 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A8 1971 Ford Mustang
Make Audi Ford
Model A8 Mustang
Year Released 2003 1971
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2974 cc 4726 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 216 HP 251 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 146 Nm
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 101.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 72.9 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1890 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2780 mm