1996 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Xterra is newer by 15 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Xterra (261 HP) has 161 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 866 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 2011 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, 2011 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, 2011 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2011 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2011 Nissan Xterra 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. 2011 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2011 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 261 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
