2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Maserati Ghibli
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Maserati Ghibli (302 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Maserati Ghibli should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1997 Maserati Ghibli.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Maserati Ghibli. 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, 1997 Maserati Ghibli (334 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Maserati Ghibli will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Maserati Ghibli has manual transmission. 1997 Maserati Ghibli 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 | 1997 Maserati Ghibli | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A3 | Ghibli |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
