1971 Austin 3 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 34 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 25 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 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Austin 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
