Can the Audi A4 Outrun the S3?
3 Answers
The Audi A4 cannot outrun the S3. The reasons are as follows: 1. Higher power output of the S3: The domestic S3 boasts nearly 300 horsepower; in contrast, the Audi A4's low-power version has only 180 horsepower, while the high-power version reaches just 220 horsepower. 2. Drivetrain: The S3 features excellent traction and a full-time all-wheel-drive system. Details about the Audi A4 and S3 are as follows: 1. Audi A4: It is sold in three displacement variants: 1.8T, 2.4, and 3.0. The 1.8T comes in four models: manual base, automatic base, comfort, and technology-leading. The 2.4 displacement offers three models: comfort, comfort sport, and comfort luxury. The 3.0 displacement has only one model, equipped with the quattro full-time all-wheel-drive system. 2. S3: It is powered by a high-performance 2.0TFSI engine, delivering a maximum power output of 300Ps and a peak torque of 380N·m. The transmission system is paired with a 6-speed S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox, achieving a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 4.87 seconds.
The performance gap between the Audi A4 and S3 is quite significant, with the S3 being the performance variant that easily outpaces the A4 from the start. I've driven both models. The A4 comes with a 2.0T engine, delivering around 190 horsepower, and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in about 7 seconds. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it ideal for daily commutes or family trips. The S3, while equipped with the same engine, is tuned more aggressively, boasting 310 horsepower and a blistering 0-100 km/h time of just 4.5 seconds. Its stiff suspension and Quattro all-wheel-drive system provide exceptional grip, allowing it to leap forward with a single press of the accelerator. I've tested both on the track a few times, and the S3 effortlessly leaves the A4 behind. In terms of fuel consumption, the S3 is slightly thirstier at around 10 liters per 100 km, while the A4 is more economical at approximately 8 liters. Maintenance costs are higher for the S3 due to pricier parts, but if you crave thrilling drives, the S3 is undoubtedly more exhilarating. The A4, on the other hand, is a practical and worry-free choice, more than sufficient if you don't frequently push it on highways.
I think it depends on the usage scenario. I've driven an A4 for commuting, and the engine is smooth and quiet, with adequate acceleration and great stability on highways. But the S3's instant push-back feeling is exhilarating, with quick starts in the city that let you take the lead at traffic lights. The A4 is economical, with cheaper insurance and maintenance, and a lower fuel consumption of around 8 liters. The S3 is the performance version, with strong power output, but its advantages aren't as obvious in congested city traffic. If it's purely about speed, the S3 definitely wins; but for daily driving, the A4 is more practical and comfortable, and more cost-effective in the long run. I recommend test driving both at the dealership to feel the differences before deciding—don't just rely on the specs.
