2012 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Ferrari F355
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1998 Ferrari F355.
Because 1998 Ferrari F355 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 1998 Ferrari F355. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1998 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ferrari F355 has manual transmission. 1998 Ferrari F355 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 1998 Ferrari F355 | |
Make | Audi | Ferrari |
Model | A3 | F355 |
Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 8250 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1180 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 82 L |