1997 Audi A6 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A6 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1997 Audi A6.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A6. (310 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A6. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
