2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 12 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
