2005 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 147 kg more than 1979 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 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, 2005 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1979 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
