1996 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Infiniti QX4
To start off, 1997 Infiniti QX4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Infiniti QX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Infiniti QX4 (169 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Infiniti QX4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Infiniti QX4 weights approximately 800 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 1997 Infiniti QX4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Infiniti QX4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Infiniti QX4 (271 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1997 Infiniti QX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1997 Infiniti QX4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Infiniti QX4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1997 Infiniti QX4 | |
| Make | Audi | Infiniti |
| Model | A3 | QX4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
