1998 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi A5
To start off, 2008 Audi A5 is newer by 10 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A5 (262 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A5 weights approximately 470 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, 2008 Audi A5 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2008 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
