2012 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 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 126 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 164 kg more than 2006 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
