2008 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Ford Sierra
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Sierra (224 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 208 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1987 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (285 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Sierra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1987 Ford Sierra | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 248 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1207 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
