2004 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 338 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Volkswagen W12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen W12 has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen W12 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 | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 350 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 3.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
