1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 443 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 Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
