2008 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1996 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |
