2005 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 290 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura RL. 1996 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | Audi | Acura |
| Model | A3 | RL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
