VS
At a Glance
Power
288hp @ 5400
271hp
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1900
310lb-ft
Fuel
26 mpg est.
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Engine
2.0 L/121ci
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Choosing between the Audi A3 and the Tesla Model 3 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Audi A3 delivers 288hp @ 5400 while the Tesla Model 3 produces 271hp. Pricing starts at $44,500 for the A3 and $36,990 for the Model 3. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Specification
Audi A3Premium Plus 2.0 TFSI quattro 2019 - From $44,500
Tesla Model 3RWD 2026 - From $36,990
Performance
Power Output (hp)
288hp @ 5400
271hp
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1900
310lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/121ci
—
Cylinders
4
—
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
7
1
Drive Wheels
All Wheel
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
26 mpg est.
—
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
22mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
29mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.5gal
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Dimensions
Length (in)
175.8in
185.8in
Width (in)
70.7in
72.8in
Height (in)
54.8in
56.7in
Wheelbase (in)
103.6in
113.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3494lbs
3759lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
—
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
—
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
A3
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Model 3
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Audi A3
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Tesla Model 3
Lower starting price ($36,990)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the A3 or Model 3?
The A3 produces 288hp @ 5400 and 280lb-ft @ 1900 of torque while the Model 3 delivers 271hp and 310lb-ft of torque. The A3 is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the A3 and Model 3?
The A3 starts from $44,500 and the Model 3 from $36,990. The Model 3 is cheaper by $7,510 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the A3 or the Model 3?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider