2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 245 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
