2005 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi S3 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2005 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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, 2003 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (240 Nm @ 1980 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1980 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
