2006 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 184 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 2004 Nissan 350Z 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 2004 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2004 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2004 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
