1996 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi A6
To start off, 2006 Audi A6 is newer by 10 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A6 (296 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A6 weights approximately 669 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 2006 Audi A6 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, 2006 Audi A6 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, 2006 Audi A6 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2006 Audi A6 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. 2006 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
