2006 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Ford Focus
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 Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Focus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
