2003 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi RS4
To start off, 2006 Audi RS4 is newer by 3 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 4,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi RS4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi RS4 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi RS4 weights approximately 415 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 2006 Audi RS4 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, 2006 Audi RS4 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, 2006 Audi RS4 (430 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi RS4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | RS4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4162 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
