2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (251 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
