1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi A4
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 12 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 345 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, 2008 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
