1996 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1161 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 84.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |