2012 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 260 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.
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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 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 | 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Audi | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A3 | 159 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
