2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Audi A8
To start off, 2011 Audi A8 is newer by 7 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A8 (372 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A8 weights approximately 795 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 2011 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Audi A8 (444 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 372 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 90 L |
