1996 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Pontiac GTO
To start off, 2003 Pontiac GTO 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac GTO (350 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 550 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 2003 Pontiac GTO 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 2003 Pontiac GTO. 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, 2003 Pontiac GTO (495 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2003 Pontiac GTO 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 Pontiac GTO will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2003 Pontiac GTO | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | GTO |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
