2007 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 439 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 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 Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
