1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 16 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 586 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Audi | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A3 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
