2012 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi A4
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (162 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2006 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
