2012 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
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 Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 896 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.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| 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 | 2356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
