2003 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 570 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| 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 | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
