2004 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi A8
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 2 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 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 152 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 540 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, 2006 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2006 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. 2006 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
