VS
At a Glance
Power
201hp @ 4800
510hp
Torque
221lb-ft @ 1600
546lb-ft
Fuel
32 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 201hp @ 4800 while the Tesla Model 3 produces 510hp. Pricing starts at $36,800 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 40 TFSI quattro 2022 - From $36,800
Tesla Model 3Performance AWD 2026 - From $36,990
Performance
Power Output (hp)
201hp @ 4800
510hp
Torque (lb-ft)
221lb-ft @ 1600
546lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/121ci
—
Cylinders
4
—
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
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Transmission
Auto-Shift Manual w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
7
1
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
32 mpg est.
—
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
28mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
36mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.5gal
—
Dimensions
Length (in)
176.9in
185.8in
Width (in)
71.5in
72.8in
Height (in)
56.2in
—
Wheelbase (in)
103.5in
113.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3494lbs
4054lbs
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
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
—
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tesla Model 3
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Model 3
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Tied
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Audi A3
Lower starting price ($36,800)
Few notable weaknesses
Tesla Model 3
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the A3 or Model 3?
The A3 produces 201hp @ 4800 and 221lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Model 3 delivers 510hp and 546lb-ft of torque. The Model 3 is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the A3 and Model 3?
The A3 starts from $36,800 and the Model 3 from $36,990, a difference of just $190, which is negligible. At this price point the two are essentially tied on starting price. 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