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 5,752 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (330 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (104 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. 1971 Ford Mustang weights approximately 280 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1971 Ford Mustang (503 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1971 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.

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 5752 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 104 HP 330 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 503 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 4000 RPM
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 1615 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2780 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 75 L