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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) 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 504 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 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 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. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | Audi | Alfa Romeo |
Model | A3 | 159 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1910 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |