2003 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Audi A4
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 335 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 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2005 Audi A4 (231 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2005 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
