2009 Ford Taurus vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi S3 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi S3 weights approximately 457 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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, 2003 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Taurus. (249 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Taurus. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Taurus | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
