2009 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 72 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 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Nissan Maxima. 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 Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima 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 Maxima | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
