2008 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (162 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 177 kg more than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. 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 1986 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Thunderbird. (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
