2007 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Audi A4
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1997 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
