1996 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
