2008 Audi S3 vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 35 kg more than 2008 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Nissan 350Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S3. (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | S3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
