1998 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 6 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 270 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2004 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
