2003 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 12 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Passat. (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2002 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1295 kg | 1307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
