2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 64 kg more than 1997 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Sentra has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Sentra 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 Nissan Sentra | |
Make | Audi | Nissan |
Model | A3 | Sentra |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |