2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 207 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. 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 2005 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2005 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1712 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
