2002 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Audi A8
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A8 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A8 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A8. 1999 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1999 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
