2009 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Audi S4
To start off, 2011 Audi S4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S4 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2011 Audi S4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S4 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, 2011 Audi S4 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2011 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
