1996 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra is newer by 10 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP) has 165 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 162 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 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2006 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 265 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
