2006 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 495 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
