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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 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 930 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
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 | 1968 cc | 3936 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
