2006 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 1 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
