2001 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 11 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), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 930 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 2012 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, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
