2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle 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 82 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
