1999 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 1999 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 450 kg more than 1999 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Chrysler Viper 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 1989 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 477 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A3 | 1989 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Audi | Chrysler |
| Model | A3 | Viper |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 621 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
