2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 204 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 4.8 L/100km | 4.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.5 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
