2012 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Toyota Solara
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Toyota Solara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Toyota Solara would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Solara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Solara. (161 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Solara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2005 Toyota Solara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Solara. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Solara. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Toyota Solara has manual transmission. 2005 Toyota Solara 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:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2005 Toyota Solara | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | A3 | Solara |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
