2008 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 69 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
