1996 Audi A3 vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 116 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volvo 120 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 1970 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1970 Volvo 120 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1970 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 120 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |