1998 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Volvo C30
To start off, 2011 Volvo C30 is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo C30 weights approximately 313 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.
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, 2011 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2011 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1453 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
