1996 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi RS4
To start off, 2006 Audi RS4 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi RS4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi RS4 (414 HP) has 314 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi RS4 weights approximately 516 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 RS4 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 RS4 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 RS4 (430 Nm) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2006 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi RS4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | RS4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
