1958 Aston Martin DB3 vs. 2003 Audi A8
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Aston Martin DB3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Aston Martin DB3 would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Aston Martin DB3 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 1958 Aston Martin DB3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, 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 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1958 Aston Martin DB3 has manual transmission. 1958 Aston Martin DB3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Aston Martin DB3 | 2003 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Audi |
| Model | DB3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
