2008 Audi A4 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2011 Audi A3.
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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 2011 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
