2012 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
