2011 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (198 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2007 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Audi A3 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
