2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 466 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Acura EL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1997 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Audi | Acura |
| Model | A3 | EL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2619 mm |
