2006 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Because 1971 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 1971 Ford Mustang. 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 (250 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1971 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4726 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
