1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 13 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Outback weights approximately 295 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 2009 Subaru Outback 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, 2009 Subaru Outback 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (215 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2009 Subaru Outback 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. 2009 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Audi | Subaru |
| Model | A3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 64 L |
