2009 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 185 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (150 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1215 kg |
