2002 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Audi A4
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. 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, 2002 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1996 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
