2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 De Tomaso Pantera
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,761 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 492 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 De Tomaso Pantera 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 De Tomaso Pantera. 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, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera (460 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1996 De Tomaso Pantera | |
| Make | Audi | De Tomaso |
| Model | A3 | Pantera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5761 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
