2003 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Maserati Shamal
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 6 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 104 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1997 Maserati Shamal.
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, 2003 Audi A8, 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 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1997 Maserati Shamal | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A8 | Shamal |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3217 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
