1996 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2007 Nissan 350Z is newer by 11 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 570 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 2007 Nissan 350Z 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 2007 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2007 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2007 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| 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 | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |
