1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (638 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 515 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 372 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 Chevrolet Corvette 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 Chevrolet Corvette. 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 Chevrolet Corvette (818 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 645 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Audi | Chevrolet |
| Model | A3 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 638 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 818 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 330 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1237 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
