2004 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 5 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 41 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A8 (441 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2009 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 90 L |
