2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Ferrari 550
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 550 would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Ferrari 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 660 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 Ferrari 550 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 Ferrari 550. 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 Ferrari 550 (568 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ferrari 550 has manual transmission. 1996 Ferrari 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1996 Ferrari 550 | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 568 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 114 L |
