2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 2010 Audi A3
To start off, 2010 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 360 more horse power than 2010 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 2010 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (652 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 2010 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 652 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4293 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
