2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Altima weights approximately 260 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Altima 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 | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Audi | Nissan |
Model | A3 | Altima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 100 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |