2002 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Porsche 944
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,680 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3.
Because 1988 Porsche 944 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 1988 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1988 Porsche 944 (225 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1988 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A3 | 944 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2680 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 104 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 219 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2390 mm |
