1999 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 178 kg more than 1999 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A3 | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
