2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf 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) has 144 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
