VS
At a Glance
Power
400hp @ 5850
295hp @ 7000
Torque
354lb-ft @ 1700
309lb-ft
Fuel
24 mpg est.
—
Engine
2.5 L/151ci
—
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 400hp @ 5850 while the Tesla Model 3 produces 295hp @ 7000. Pricing starts at $54,900 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 A3RS 3 2.5 TFSI S Tronic 2018 - From $54,900
Tesla Model 3Premium RWD 2026 - From $36,990
Performance
Power Output (hp)
400hp @ 5850
295hp @ 7000
Torque (lb-ft)
354lb-ft @ 1700
309lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/151ci
—
Cylinders
5
—
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
7
1
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
24 mpg est.
—
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
28mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.5gal
—
Dimensions
Length (in)
176.3in
185.8in
Width (in)
70.7in
72.8in
Height (in)
55in
56.7in
Wheelbase (in)
103.6in
113.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3593lbs
3891lbs
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
✓ 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 400hp @ 5850 and 354lb-ft @ 1700 of torque while the Model 3 delivers 295hp @ 7000 and 309lb-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 $54,900 and the Model 3 from $36,990. The Model 3 is cheaper by $17,910 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