1996 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 198 kg more than 1984 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
