2002 Audi S3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 137 kg more than 2002 Audi S3.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
