2001 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 125 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
