1996 Audi A3 vs. 1992 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Pontiac Firebird (140 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 276 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Pontiac Firebird 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 1992 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1992 Pontiac Firebird (244 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1992 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1992 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3128 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
