1996 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 344 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
