2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 80 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2771 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1525 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |