2001 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi A8
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 5 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 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 152 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2006 Audi A8.
Because 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 2006 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
