2009 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan 350Z (297 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2007 Nissan 350Z 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 2007 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2007 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2007 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
