2006 Audi S3 vs. 2008 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S3 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Taurus. 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, 2008 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2008 Ford Taurus 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. 2008 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2008 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6251 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4501 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1110 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 78 L |
