2004 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 26 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
