2009 Audi R8 vs. 2002 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3. 2002 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 2002 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | R8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
