2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 920 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2011 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
