2004 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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, 2004 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
