2006 Audi A3 vs. 1970 Ford Escort

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1970 Ford Escort. (120 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1970 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Ford Escort 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 1970 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Escort. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Escort. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1970 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1970 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 1970 Ford Escort
Make Audi Ford
Model A3 Escort
Year Released 2006 1970
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1982 cc 1599 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 148 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 77.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 209 km/hour 182 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1275 kg 785 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 41 L