2004 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Audi A8
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 360 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 2005 Audi A8 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, 2005 Audi A8 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, 2005 Audi A8 (360 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2005 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
