2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 219 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 1996 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Audi | Hyundai |
| Model | A3 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
