1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2010 Audi A3
To start off, 2010 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Audi A3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 240 | 2010 Audi A3 | |
Make | Volvo | Audi |
Model | 240 | A3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2383 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4293 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |