1974 Volvo 244 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 54 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 244 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | 244 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2125 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
