1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Audi A4
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 470 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.
Because 2005 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 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, 2005 Audi A4 (225 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |
