1956 Volvo 120 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
1956 Volvo 120 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
Make | Volvo | Audi |
Model | 120 | A3 |
Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 115 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2580 mm |