2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Ford Falcon

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1988 Ford Falcon. (161 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1988 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Ford Falcon 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 1988 Ford Falcon. 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, 1988 Ford Falcon (311 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 1988 Ford Falcon 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. 1988 Ford Falcon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 1988 Ford Falcon
Make Audi Ford
Model A3 Falcon
Year Released 2006 1988
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1999 cc 3949 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4250 RPM
Torque 281 Nm 311 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3250 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1510 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2800 mm