2002 Audi S3 vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (187 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 367 kg more than 2002 Audi S3.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Toyota Highlander. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Highlander. 2012 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | S3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
