1998 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,695 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2001 Audi A8 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3695 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 13 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
