2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S40. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Audi A3.
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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
