1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (122 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 165 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Audi | Chevrolet |
| Model | A3 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 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 | 1140 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
