2005 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Audi | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A3 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
