1996 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 520 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2002 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
