1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2005 TVR Chimaera is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 TVR Chimaera (281 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 75 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 2005 TVR Chimaera 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 2005 TVR Chimaera. 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, 2005 TVR Chimaera (389 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Audi | TVR |
| Model | A3 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 389 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 257 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
