2012 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. (173 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 41 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Audi | Pontiac |
| Model | A3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3128 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
