2012 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2001 Ford Mustang. (187 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2001 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2001 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2001 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
