1996 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Volvo 240
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 240. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 240 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 1989 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 1989 Volvo 240. 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1989 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
