2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
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, 2008 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
