2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2003 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 2003 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Smart ForTwo is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart ForTwo. (96 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Audi | Smart |
| Model | A3 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 15.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 33 L |
