2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2012 Porsche Boxster 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 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche Boxster (320 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 90 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 2012 Porsche Boxster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Porsche Boxster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Porsche Boxster (370 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A3 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4346 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2416 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 64 L |
