2009 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (251 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 358 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
