2005 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 60 kg more than 2005 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
