1999 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Maserati Shamal
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Maserati Shamal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Maserati Shamal would be higher. At 3,217 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Maserati Shamal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Maserati Shamal (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Maserati Shamal weights approximately 125 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Maserati Shamal 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 Maserati Shamal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1997 Maserati Shamal (444 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1997 Maserati Shamal | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A4 | Shamal |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3217 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
