2009 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. 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, both vehicles can yield 281 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
