1957 Volvo 120 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volvo 120 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 (140 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1957 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1957 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Volvo 120 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | 120 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
