2002 Audi S3 vs. 2009 Audi S4
To start off, 2009 Audi S4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 4,161 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S3 weights approximately 493 kg more than 2009 Audi S4.
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, 2009 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3. 2009 Audi S4 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi S4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2009 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S3 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 4161 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
