1996 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (157 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 186 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1990 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1990 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| 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 | 157 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
