2006 Audi S3 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 205 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 S3 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 S3 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1225 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
