1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima.
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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima 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:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Audi |
| Model | Maxima | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
