2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Porsche 993
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 993 would be higher. At 3,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche 993 (296 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Porsche 993 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Porsche 993 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 1996 Porsche 993. 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, 1996 Porsche 993 (355 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1996 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A3 | 993 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2280 mm |
