2004 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ranger weights approximately 190 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger 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 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, 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, 1997 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1997 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
