2003 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 9 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 345 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 2012 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Audi | Audi |
Model | A3 | A3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |