2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 345 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | A3 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
