2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 GMC Safari
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 GMC Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 GMC Safari would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 GMC Safari. (187 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 GMC Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 GMC Safari weights approximately 925 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1998 GMC Safari is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 GMC Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 GMC Safari | |
| Make | Audi | GMC |
| Model | A3 | Safari |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
