2004 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 258 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (359 Nm) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1463 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 76 L |
