2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 282 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (354 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 276 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
