2004 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Audi A6
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A6 (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A6 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Audi A6 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1996 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
