1998 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Buick Century
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 380 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 1997 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 1997 Buick Century | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Century |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 64 L |
