1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 256 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 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1396 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
