1999 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Audi A4
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1999 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 1999 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 (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 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 1999 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A3 | 2009 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1630 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 | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |
