2003 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Volvo 245
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 245. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 245 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 1980 Volvo 245 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1980 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 245 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
