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 3,594 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 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. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Porsche 996.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2003 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 2003 Porsche 996 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 | 2003 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A3 | 996 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2360 mm |
