2002 Audi S3 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 850. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S3 weights approximately 53 kg more than 1991 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Volvo 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 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, 2002 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | S3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 58 L |
