2009 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1985 Ford Mustang. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Mustang weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1985 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 1985 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, 1985 Ford Mustang (285 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1985 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 | 1985 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
