2001 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 860 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 2011 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
