1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Shadow. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Shadow would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Shadow is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Shadow. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi S3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1989 Dodge Shadow. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Dodge Shadow. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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, 2003 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Shadow.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Shadow | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Audi |
| Model | Shadow | S3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2530 mm |
