2009 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 46 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.

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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 2012 Volkswagen Golf
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A3 Golf
Year Released 2009 2012
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1346 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4199 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L


 

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