1971 Austin 3 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 37 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Volvo V50.
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, 2008 Volvo V50, 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 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
