1996 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 770 kg more than 1996 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, 2001 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3080 mm |
