2009 Audi A4 vs. 2011 Audi S3
To start off, 2011 Audi S3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2011 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2011 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S3 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 S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 2011 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
