2008 Audi S3 vs. 1998 Maserati Shamal
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Maserati Shamal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Maserati Shamal would be higher. At 3,217 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Maserati Shamal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Maserati Shamal (322 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2008 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 Maserati Shamal.
Because 2008 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Maserati Shamal. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 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, 1998 Maserati Shamal (444 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S3. (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 1998 Maserati Shamal | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | S3 | Shamal |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3217 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
