2009 Audi S3 vs. 1988 Subaru XT
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Subaru XT would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1988 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi S3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1988 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 1988 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Audi | Subaru |
| Model | S3 | XT |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
