2003 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 460 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 460 (118 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volvo 460. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 1989 Volvo 460 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
