2006 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 56 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
