1996 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 1999 Nissan Xterra is newer by 3 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 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan Xterra (141 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 450 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 1999 Nissan Xterra 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, 1999 Nissan Xterra 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, 1999 Nissan Xterra (209 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1999 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1999 Nissan Xterra 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. 1999 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Audi A3 1999 Nissan Xterra
Make Audi Nissan
Model A3 Xterra
Year Released 1996 1999
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 2393 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 100 HP 141 HP
Torque 136 Nm 209 Nm
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.5 mm 96 mm
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1134 kg 1584 kg
Vehicle Length 4160 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1890 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2660 mm