1996 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 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 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 184 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.
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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
