2009 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 684 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1996 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |
