2004 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 100 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.

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 Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A3 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A3 Passat
Year Released 2004 2008
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 2496 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 197 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 236 km/hour 220 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7 seconds 9.1 seconds
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1410 kg 1510 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.7 L/100km 6.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 62 L