2006 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Ford Mustang
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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1998 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1998 Ford Mustang. 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 Mustang. 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 (321 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1998 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
