1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 12 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 2008 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (254 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 49 L |
