1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Aston Martin Rapide
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin Rapide 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 Rapide is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin Rapide (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin Rapide should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin Rapide weights approximately 844 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 Rapide 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 Rapide. 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 Rapide (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Aston Martin Rapide will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2012 Aston Martin Rapide 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 Aston Martin Rapide will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Aston Martin Rapide | |
Make | Audi | Aston Martin |
Model | A3 | Rapide |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
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 shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5019 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1928 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2990 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |