2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Rover Vitesse

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Rover Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Rover Vitesse would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Rover Vitesse. (178 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Rover Vitesse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1988 Rover Vitesse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Rover Vitesse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Rover Vitesse. (229 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Rover Vitesse. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Rover Vitesse has manual transmission. 1988 Rover Vitesse 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 1988 Rover Vitesse
Make Audi Rover
Model A3 Vitesse
Year Released 2008 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3196 cc 2675 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 250 HP 178 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 229 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.9 mm 75 mm
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1455 kg 1427 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4700 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2760 mm