2012 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 32 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
Make | Audi | Ford |
Model | A3 | Mustang |
Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4601 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1492 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2490 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |