1958 Aston Martin DB3 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 54 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 267 more horse power than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. (153 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 695 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 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Aston Martin DB3. 2012 Audi R8 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. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Aston Martin DB3 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Audi |
| Model | DB3 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
