2006 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A4 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. 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 A4 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1996 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
