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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 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 504 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.
Because 2006 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4 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, 2006 Audi A4 (226 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 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 | 1786 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
