2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
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 Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Pontiac Solstice. (173 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 Solstice. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Pontiac Solstice. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Pontiac Solstice. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 Solstice | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |
