2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
