2002 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Audi S4
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 455 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 2004 Audi S4 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, 2004 Audi S4 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, 2004 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2004 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
