2004 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Porsche 996
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Porsche 996 weights approximately 75 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 2003 Porsche 996 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Porsche 996. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2003 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A3 | 996 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2360 mm |
