2009 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Panoz AIV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Panoz AIV would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1999 Panoz AIV.
Because 1999 Panoz AIV 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 1999 Panoz AIV. 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, 1999 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1999 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Audi | Panoz |
| Model | A3 | AIV |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
