2009 Audi A8 vs. 1959 Austin-Healey 3000

To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. (124 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 527 kg more than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 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 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8, 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, 2009 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. (237 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A8 1959 Austin-Healey 3000
Make Audi Austin-Healey
Model A8 3000
Year Released 2009 1959
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2975 cc 2911 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 124 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 237 Nm
Torque RPM 8200 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 83.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 88.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 242 km/hour 183 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 1143 kg
Vehicle Length 5190 mm 4010 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1250 mm
Wheelbase Size 3080 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 54 L