2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 67 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 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
