2006 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
