2005 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,753 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (267 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Mustang weights approximately 429 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 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 1972 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1972 Ford Mustang (417 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Audi A3 1972 Ford Mustang
Make Audi Ford
Model A3 Mustang
Year Released 2005 1972
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 5753 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 101 HP 267 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 417 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 101.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.4 mm 88.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1225 kg 1654 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2780 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 73 L