2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 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 6,300 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (500 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2012 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, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A8 (627 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 6300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 627 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5268 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3122 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
