2001 Porsche 996 vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2001 Porsche 996.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2001 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (330 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 2001 Porsche 996 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Porsche 996 | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Porsche | Audi |
| Model | 996 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2760 mm |
