2004 Audi A3 vs. 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta (321 HP) has 183 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta 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 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta. 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, 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta (426 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta has manual transmission. 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta | |
| Make | Audi | De Tomaso |
| Model | A3 | Mangusta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 321 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 257 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
