2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Because 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 1997 Porsche Boxster. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A3 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2360 mm |
