1998 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Maserati Spyder
To start off, 2008 Maserati Spyder is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,244 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Maserati Spyder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Maserati Spyder (385 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Maserati Spyder should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Maserati Spyder weights approximately 582 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Maserati Spyder 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 2008 Maserati Spyder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 Maserati Spyder (451 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Maserati Spyder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2008 Maserati Spyder | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A3 | Spyder |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 451 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 283 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 18.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 88 L |
