1996 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 7 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 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 465 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2003 Opel Vectra 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. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
