2007 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Ford Probe
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Probe would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1997 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Probe |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1320 mm |
