2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. Both 2009 Audi A3 and 1996 Volkswagen Golf are equipped with a 1,896 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster 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 (250 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
