2004 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (240 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 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 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
