2006 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1989 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1989 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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 @ 1900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1989 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
