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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (217 HP) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) 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 541 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 (301 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2005 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
