2006 Audi S3 vs. 1999 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (177 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 250 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (274 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Xterra. 1999 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 1999 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | S3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 274 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1680 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
