2012 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2009 Ford Mustang.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 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 2009 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
