3D System Tests
While our 3D system tests are designed to scale as much as possible with system changes, rather than graphics card performance, the graphics card is obviously still a point of influence. Bear that in mind as we run through the 3D system tests. Quake 3 first.
Performance parity between the two Socket A systems, both running FX 5900 Ultra. That's what to expect throughout the 3D system tests, look out for it to carry on.
A7N8X-E wins by the slimmest of margins, the 9800XT-equipped systems pull away, although their results have less to do with the graphics card and more to do with the rest of the subsystem.
Using FX 5900 Ultra in the Socket A systems, we actually overestimate performance, compared to what we'd see with 9800XTs in the AGP slots of the XP3200+ equipped contenders. Make them a little bit slower on the graph for a fairer fight, but it does go to show that graphics card choice can influence performance.
A7N8X-E easily keeps pace with AN7, as expected. Let's confirm that with the remainder of our 3D system tests.
