2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 29 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2008 Audi A3 (250 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
