2009 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (158 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 410 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
