2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Pontiac G8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Pontiac G8 would be higher. At 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (362 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac G8 weights approximately 322 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.
Because 2008 Pontiac G8 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 2008 Pontiac G8. 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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (530 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Pontiac G8 has manual transmission. 2008 Pontiac G8 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 | 2008 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | G8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
