2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Ford Econovan
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2003 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Econovan weights approximately 365 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2003 Ford Econovan 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 2003 Ford Econovan. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Econovan. (139 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2003 Ford Econovan | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Econovan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2210 mm |
