2005 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 weights approximately 485 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 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 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 2012 Ford Shelby GT500. 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, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (691 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 491 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Shelby GT500 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 550 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 691 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1800 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
