1999 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Ferrari F355
To start off, 1999 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 210 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 1997 Ferrari F355 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 Ferrari F355. 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, 1997 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A3 | 1997 Ferrari F355 | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A3 | F355 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.1:1 |
| 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 | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 82 L |
