2003 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2006 Panoz Esperante is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 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 (305 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 240 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2006 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2006 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Audi | Panoz |
| Model | A3 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
