1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Audi A6
To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 13 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), 2009 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (329 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A6 weights approximately 605 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 2009 Audi A6 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, 2009 Audi A6 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, 2009 Audi A6 (421 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A6 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. 2009 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2009 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
