1970 Austin 3 vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2001 Volvo S80 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo S80 (268 HP) has 145 more horse power than 1970 Austin 3. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1970 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo S80 weights approximately 11 kg more than 1970 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Austin 3 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 1970 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volvo S80, 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, 2001 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Austin 3 | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
