1996 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 8 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 380 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 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 2004 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. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2004 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
