1996 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Audi A3
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 405 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 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2007 Audi A3 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. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2007 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 205 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 | 1140 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
