2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Audi A8
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 89 L |
