1998 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1998 Audi A3 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi A3 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |