1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 150 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| 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 | 114 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
