1996 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 17 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), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP) has 97 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 242 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
