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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 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 159 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 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 | 1595 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
