1997 McLaren F1 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 McLaren F1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 McLaren F1 would be higher. At 6,063 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 McLaren F1 (618 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 418 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 McLaren F1.
Because 1997 McLaren F1 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 1997 McLaren F1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 McLaren F1 (649 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 369 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 McLaren F1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 McLaren F1 has manual transmission. 1997 McLaren F1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 McLaren F1 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | McLaren | Audi |
| Model | F1 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6063 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 649 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
