1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 381 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1521 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |