1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 673 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 2005 Volkswagen Sharan 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, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan 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, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan (310 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1807 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
