1998 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 441 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2008 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
