2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2011 Nissan 370Z is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 293 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Nissan 370Z 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 2011 Nissan 370Z. 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, 2011 Nissan 370Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2011 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1573 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4247 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
