2006 Audi S3 vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 6 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (412 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 257 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 2012 Ford Mustang. 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, 2012 Ford Mustang (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 412 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 528 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1687 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
