2012 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (239 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 535 kg more than 2012 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
