2004 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
