1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Aston Martin DB9
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 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 5,900 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin DB9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin DB9 weights approximately 654 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 2012 Aston Martin DB9 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 2012 Aston Martin DB9. 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, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Aston Martin DB9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Aston Martin DB9 | |
Make | Audi | Aston Martin |
Model | A3 | DB9 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 470 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4709 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1875 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2746 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |