2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Audi S6
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 S6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi S6 would be higher. At 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 315 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 S6 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 S6 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 S6 (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 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 S6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 14.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 82 L |
