2001 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 8 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 2,772 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (207 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 485 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A8 (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2772 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5070 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 | 8.3 L/100km |
