1997 Audi A8 vs. 1983 Volvo 740
To start off, 1997 Audi A8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 740 (180 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1983 Volvo 740.
Because 1983 Volvo 740 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 1983 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 740. (260 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 1983 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | 740 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
