1971 Austin 3 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (241 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70, 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 81 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 | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
