1996 Audi A6 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,391 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1996 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2008 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
