2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
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 Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 397 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
