2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang. 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 1997 Ford Mustang. 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, 1997 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1997 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
