2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 618 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
