2001 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Audi A8
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 650 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 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, 2002 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2002 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
