2009 Audi A3 vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 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 @ 5100 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1993 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1993 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 1993 Volkswagen Passat
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A3 Passat
Year Released 2009 1993
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1780 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.6 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1220 kg
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1730 mm