2012 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Audi A6
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 A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A6 would be higher. At 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A6 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A6 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6 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, 2006 Audi A6 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2006 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A6 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
