2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Audi A4
To start off, 2012 Audi A4 is newer by 8 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2012 Audi A4. (211 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A4 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
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, 2012 Audi A4 (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A4 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 | 2012 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
