2003 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
