2009 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,752 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (330 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford Mustang weights approximately 685 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 1971 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1971 Ford Mustang (503 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1971 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 5752 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
