2006 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Audi A4
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1997 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
