2005 Audi A4 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 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 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4. 2005 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
