2005 Alpina Roadster vs. 1996 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Alpina Roadster is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alpina Roadster (301 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 492 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Alpina Roadster 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 Alpina Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2005 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alpina Roadster | 1996 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Alpina | Audi |
| Model | Roadster | A3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
