2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
