1996 Audi S6 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 S6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi S6 would be higher. At 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. 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, 1996 Audi S6 (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 2004 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S6 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 60 L |
