2009 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 720 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 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, 2001 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
