1997 Audi A8 vs. 2013 Audi A3
To start off, 2013 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Audi A3 (197 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2013 Audi A3.
Because 2013 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2013 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4292 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1995 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |
