2006 Audi S3 vs. 1995 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (230 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 174 kg more than 2006 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 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, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (447 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 1995 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 1995 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1604 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2950 mm |
