2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Safrane (142 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 Renault Safrane.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Renault Safrane. 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Safrane. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Safrane. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Safrane 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 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 38 L |
