1996 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 17 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC90 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1020 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, 2013 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2857 mm |
