1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage (510 HP) has 410 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage weights approximately 546 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 V12 Vantage 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 V12 Vantage. 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 V12 Vantage (569 Nm) has 433 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage 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 V12 Vantage | |
| Make | Audi | Aston Martin |
| Model | A3 | V12 Vantage |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 510 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 569 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4384 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1234 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2601 mm |
