2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,968 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 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura EL weights approximately 184 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Audi | Acura |
| Model | A3 | EL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 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 | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2619 mm |
