1996 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Audi A1
To start off, 2010 Audi A1 is newer by 14 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2010 Audi A1. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Audi A1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2010 Audi A1. 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, 2010 Audi A1 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2010 Audi A1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2010 Audi A1 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A1 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3954 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1416 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2469 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 34 L |
