1996 Opel Astra vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Opel | Audi |
| Model | Astra | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
