2007 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 10 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
