2004 Audi A3 vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Audi A3 (230 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
