2006 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (267 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 185 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Audi | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A3 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 74 L |
