2006 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,997 cc, 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (450 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 850 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 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 A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2145 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
