2005 Audi A6 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2005 Audi A6. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A6 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2005 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A6 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 A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A6. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A6. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A6 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
