1990 Volvo 240 vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2004 Audi S3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S3 weights approximately 133 kg more than 1990 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 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, 2004 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 240 | 2004 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | 240 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2530 mm |
