2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 314 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
