2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Maserati 420
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Maserati 420 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Maserati 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Maserati 420 (217 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1988 Maserati 420.
Because 1988 Maserati 420 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 Maserati 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Maserati 420 (259 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Maserati 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1988 Maserati 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2610 mm |
