2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Xterra 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 614 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 Xterra 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 Xterra. 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2011 Nissan Xterra 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. 2011 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2011 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1879 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
