2004 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Audi S6
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 S6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi S6 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (322 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 335 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.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 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, 1996 Audi S6 (400 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1996 Audi S6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
