1998 Audi A4 vs. 2006 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2006 Panoz Esperante is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Panoz Esperante (420 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A4 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2006 Panoz Esperante.
Because 2006 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 2006 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A4, 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, 2006 Panoz Esperante (570 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 2006 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Audi | Panoz |
| Model | A4 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
