2008 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1972 Ford Mustang. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1972 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1972 Ford Mustang (328 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1972 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4941 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
