2009 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1999 Ford Contour.
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, 1999 Ford Contour (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 1999 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. 1999 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1999 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1300 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
