2009 Audi A3 vs. 1988 TVR Tuscan
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 TVR Tuscan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR Tuscan would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 TVR Tuscan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR Tuscan (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR Tuscan should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1988 TVR Tuscan.
Because 1988 TVR Tuscan 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 1988 TVR Tuscan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 TVR Tuscan (298 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 TVR Tuscan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1988 TVR Tuscan | |
| Make | Audi | TVR |
| Model | A3 | Tuscan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 924 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2290 mm |
