2004 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Audi S4
To start off, 2009 Audi S4 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 S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 635 kg more than 2009 Audi S4.
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, 2009 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi S4 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 | 2009 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| 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 | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
