1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | Cabriolet | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |
