2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi A4
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 5 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 3,123 cc, 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 349 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 2008 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, 2008 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A4 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. 2008 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2008 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3123 cc |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
