2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Audi A4
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1997 Audi A4.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Audi A4 (234 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
