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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (195 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
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 | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 208 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 | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
