1996 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2003 Audi A3 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
