2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 TVR Chimaera (281 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 285 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 2008 TVR Chimaera 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 2008 TVR Chimaera. 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, 2008 TVR Chimaera (390 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Audi | TVR |
| Model | A3 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
