2006 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (309 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 441 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (358 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
