2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4150 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |