2006 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 5,751 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 332 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 1972 Ford Gran Torino. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (374 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 5751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 87 L |
