2006 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (560 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 459 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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 R8 (539 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1267 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
