2006 Audi S3 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | S3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1398 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
