2009 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Trans Am weights approximately 690 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2001 Pontiac Trans Am 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 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 2001 Pontiac Trans Am (455 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Trans Am 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 | 2001 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 455 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
