2005 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 325 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
