2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 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. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
