2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Altima weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
