2003 Acura RSX vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RSX would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Acura RSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (192 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Acura | Audi |
| Model | RSX | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
