1996 Audi A3 vs. 2000 Noble M12
To start off, 2000 Noble M12 is newer by 4 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Noble M12 (307 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2000 Noble M12.
Because 2000 Noble M12 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 2000 Noble M12. 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, 2000 Noble M12 (435 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2000 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2000 Noble M12 | |
| Make | Audi | Noble |
| Model | A3 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 307 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2440 mm |
