2012 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 137 kg more than 2005 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Ford Ranger 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 2005 Ford Ranger. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ranger. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Ranger 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 | 2005 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 172 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 | 1323 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
