2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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, 2008 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 121 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.
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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
