1998 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi A4
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 8 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A4 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 650 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.
Because 2006 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4 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, 2006 Audi A4 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 451 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
