2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 5 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
