2008 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Porsche 944

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Porsche 944 (188 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1986 Porsche 944.

Because 1986 Porsche 944 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 1986 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Porsche 944. (230 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Porsche 944. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Porsche 944 has manual transmission. 1986 Porsche 944 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 1986 Porsche 944
Make Audi Porsche
Model A3 944
Year Released 2008 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 2479 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 188 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 100 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.5 mm 78.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 10.9:1
Top Speed 207 km/hour 227 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.5 seconds 7.9 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1415 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2410 mm