2009 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2012 Nissan 370Z is newer by 3 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 41 kg more than 2012 Nissan 370Z.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Nissan 370Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Nissan 370Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2012 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4247 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
