1997 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2003 Panoz Esperante is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Panoz Esperante (318 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2003 Panoz Esperante.
Because 2003 Panoz Esperante 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 2003 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Panoz Esperante (426 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2003 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Audi | Panoz |
| Model | A8 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 318 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 59 L |
