2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 4 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), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 455 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2012 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 2000 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 | 60 L | 80 L |
