1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2007 Audi A3
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2007 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | Passat | A3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
