1998 Audi A6 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A6 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A6 (286 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (251 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A6 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 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, 1998 Audi A6 (401 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
