2009 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 285 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2004 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2004 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
