2003 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (340 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2004 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
