2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 122 kg more than 2007 Audi A3.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
