1998 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (415 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1226 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
