2006 Audi S3 vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 640 kg more than 2006 Audi S3. 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 Pathfinder. 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, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (390 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2012 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | S3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2070 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
