1996 Rover 400 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Rover 400. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 400.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Rover 400. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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, 2003 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Rover 400 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Rover | Audi |
| Model | 400 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2530 mm |
