2005 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Pontiac Solstice. (177 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2006 Pontiac Solstice 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 2006 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Pontiac Solstice. (225 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Pontiac Solstice. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2006 Pontiac Solstice will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2006 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |
