2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 345 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 1996 Ford Thunderbird 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1996 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Audi | Ford |
Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 291 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |