2010 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 424 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Nissan Xterra 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 2010 Nissan Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2010 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2010 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2010 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Nissan Xterra | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Audi |
| Model | Xterra | A3 |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4539 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1849 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1902 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
