2004 Audi A3 vs. 1989 TVR 400
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR 400 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR 400 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR 400 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1989 TVR 400.
Because 1989 TVR 400 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 1989 TVR 400. 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, 1989 TVR 400 (366 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 TVR 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1989 TVR 400 | |
| Make | Audi | TVR |
| Model | A3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2420 mm |
