2006 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Ford Mustang
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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Mustang weights approximately 116 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 1972 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 1972 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, 1972 Ford Mustang (328 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1972 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 | 1972 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4941 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| 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 | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
