2012 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2771 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 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 | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |