2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 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 R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi R8 weights approximately 70 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.
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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi R8 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 | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
