2006 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
