2006 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 46 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. 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 2003 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
