2011 Volkswagen T5 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Volkswagen T5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Volkswagen T5 would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 847 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2011 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volkswagen T5 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | T5 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2459 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2307 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
