2006 Audi S3 vs. 1990 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 180 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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, 1990 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 1990 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1610 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
