1971 Austin 3 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 38 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 63 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, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (301 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1553 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
