1994 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1994 Audi A8. (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1994 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Audi A8. (249 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Audi A8 | 2004 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
