1996 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (136 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 834 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
