1998 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Audi A4
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 11 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (328 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 510 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 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A4 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A4 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. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2009 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
