2007 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 429 kg more than 1996 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2007 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1996 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Audi | Saturn |
| Model | A3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
