2012 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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:
2012 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2012 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1226 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |