2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Ferrari 512 M
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 512 M would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1996 Ferrari 512 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (422 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 512 M should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ferrari 512 M. 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, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (500 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari 512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ferrari 512 M has manual transmission. 1996 Ferrari 512 M 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 | 1996 Ferrari 512 M | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A3 | 512 M |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 422 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
