2006 Audi S3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 118 kg more than 2006 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1548 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
