2006 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Maserati Ghibli
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Maserati Ghibli. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Maserati Ghibli would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Maserati Ghibli is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Maserati Ghibli (302 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Maserati Ghibli should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1997 Maserati Ghibli.
Because 1997 Maserati Ghibli 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 Ghibli. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 Maserati Ghibli (334 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Maserati Ghibli will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1997 Maserati Ghibli | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A3 | Ghibli |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
