1998 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 261 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.
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 GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| 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 | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
