2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 13 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
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, 2009 Audi A4 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
