1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 9 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 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (197 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 394 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (271 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 73.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
