1996 Audi A3 vs. 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 would be higher. At 3,481 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 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 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 (345 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1959 Maserati Gran Turismo 3500 | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A3 | Gran Turismo 3500 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3481 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
