2006 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Audi A8
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,188 cc, 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 370 kg more than 2002 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2002 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 2771 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 191 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3020 mm |
